Better be extra careful the next time you encounter a crow. What if crossing a crow could have consequences: crows can remember and torment humans who mistreat them!
What: In addition to getting from one place to another the quickest way possible, crows also hold grudges for as long as possible.
Who: The crow-on-seeking-revenge narrative was noticed when crows were targeting the same scientists who had trapped and experimented on them in their University of Washington labs as they were leaving the labs to go home.
When: When one crow is slighted the entire murder is alerted: crows communicate with other crows who should be targeted for revenge.
Where: Unlike a lot of other birds who thrive in heavily forested areas, crows prefer places with more open terrain.
How: Crows are able to hold grudges (and seek revenge!) thanks to their ability to recognize and remember human faces.
Why: Why would crows adapt the ability to remember human faces even if it leads to them holding grudges and seeking revenge? According to Professor John Marzluff of the University of Washington, "It is a trait that can help species successfully adapt to, and co-evolve with, humans."
Huh?: What if there are more crows living in the lower 48 states of the United States today than before the European settlers arrived. Find out why in the California Audubon article, "Things you may or may not know about crows."
Wow!: Crows don't just seek revenge, they also don't forget! As the years go by the number of crows holding grudges against specific humans increases, suggesting that crows go on to teach their children to keep the grudge going!
Thanks for getting curious about animal abilities and adaptations with the Butt-Breathing Turtle. Keep getting curious about animals with The Screaming Hairy Armadillo and its free Educator's Guide!
Thank you for your curiosity, stay curious, and let your curiosity lead your learning with more Curiosity-Based Learning content and activities from What If Curiosity!
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